Free Tarot Readings – a Good Thing?

Websites offering free tarot readings are all over the internet. They tend to fall into two categories; automated or carried out by a real person.

Automated Tarot Readings

Automated readings are computer scripts that follow certain algorithms; they are similar to throwing a dice or consulting a Magic-8 ball. Pre-written interpretations are built into the program, and by necessity have to be very general. However, this kind of free reading can be useful. Most tarot readings are based on chance as cards are drawn randomly by the reader or client; automated readings are no different. The danger is that some people don’t get the answer they were hoping for, so they move on to the next free reading site, then the next. Then any useful message becomes lost in “noise”.

Make sure you phrase your question (if the site requires one) in such a way that you get an answer that is relevant. For example, “Will I get a new job soon?” is not likely to produce any useful information. However, if you asked, “How do I get the best from my current work situation?” then you may get something interesting. The actual program doesn’t read your question; it’s more for your benefit, so the cards make sense in the context of your question.

The way to get the best from an automated reading is to make a note of the cards, or take a screen-shot, and then go and research each card in the reading yourself. You will then be able to build a useful reading that you can refer to in the future. It may even be the start of your tarot reading journey.

Dos and Don’ts of Automated Readings

Do check out a site before embarking on a free reading request. Be careful of picking up malware on your computer or tablet.

Do write down your question and ensure you phrase it in a manner that will help you.

Do keep a record of the cards and spend a little time building on the meanings given by the program.

Do understand that if you are asked for an email address, you will be added to a mailing list or newsletter. This is not necessarily a bad idea as long as you are happy to receive them. It is a simple matter to unsubscribe at any time.

Don’t be a tarot tart – getting readings just because you can is neither useful or good for you. At best, you will be just as confused as when you started; at worst, it can become addictive.

Don’t take it too seriously; automated readings are there to entertain.

You can get an excellent “past, present and future” reading right on our website!

Free Tarot Readings by Real People

There are two main reasons tarot readers offer free readings. The first is for practice. Everyone has to start somewhere, so many fledgling readers offer their services on free reading sites, their webpage, or on social media sites. You can get some very good results from these short readings as the readers are often working under the supervision of a mentor.

You can usually contact the same reader again, possibly to arrange a paid private consultation. You can be sure that your reader will appreciate your patronage.

Please be aware that often, for the sake of education and feedback, the reading is shared with other readers, although personal details are removed.

The second reason that some readers offer freebies is to encourage you to purchase a full reading. You can find these on tarot websites and blogs. There’s no obligation to buy a full reading, but your question and the answer are usually posted for all visitors to that site to read.

These readings can vary in quality and length. Most are one or two-carders, with the reading being as long as a piece of string. Some are very good, with the reader being willing to have some ongoing dialog about the question/cards.

Dos and Don’ts of Requesting a Free Reading

Don’t expect a full reading. It’s just not possible for a reader to spend a long time on free readings. They will usually be short and to the point. If you want more, then you’ll have to cough up the cash and purchase an in-depth consultation.

Don’t be rude. Even if the reading is way off, just say thank you. Getting into a public argument on someone’s blog, guestbook or Facebook page is not a good idea. If you hated the reading, delete the email and don’t go back to the site.

Don’t keep asking for readings. Most people are happy to read for the same person maybe a couple of times a year. But those who repeatedly ask (and they are often the least appreciative) run the risk of being ignored, blocked or banned. Professional tarot readers are not in business to be someone’s personal free oracle.

Do read the reader’s requirements carefully. You don’t have to use your real name. Often they will ask for your date of birth. Some may ask for your general location. There’s nothing sinister about it — readers just need to make a connection with you as an individual. Don’t worry, tarot readers can’t spy on you.

Do think about your question carefully before posting your request. Is the answer going to help you, or will you put your life on hold until the outcome materializes? Ask a question that can help you right now.

Do ask politely. You’d think this wouldn’t need saying, but it does. Remember that you are writing to another human being who has offered to give up his or her time to do you this favor. Be nice.

Do give feedback. If someone takes the trouble to read the cards for you, the least you can do is go back to the site and provide a little feedback. If you can’t think of anything to say, simply express your thanks. It is always appreciated.

Do share your experience. If you are not in the market for a paid reading, then consider sharing your experience on social media if it was a positive one. It’s a nice way of thanking the reader.